Strawberry Avocado Caprese Salad

Name: Strawberry Avocado Caprese Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 ripe avocados, diced; 8 oz fresh mozzarella, ball or sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 tbsp balsamic glaze; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love the freshness of this Strawberry Avocado Caprese Salad! It combines my favorite fruits and traditional Caprese elements in a way that feels both vibrant and indulgent. The sweetness of ripe strawberries contrasts beautifully with creamy avocado and classic mozzarella. As the warm weather rolls in, this recipe has become my go-to for a light lunch or a stunning side dish at gatherings. It's refreshing, satisfying, and anyone can whip it up in no time.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-05T18:01:27.255Z

I grew up loving Caprese salad, but the addition of strawberries and avocado took it to a whole new level! When I first combined these ingredients, I was amazed by how the flavors complemented each other. The sweet strawberries provide a burst of flavor, while the avocado adds richness that makes each bite special.

Not only is this salad visually stunning, but it also offers a satisfying crunch from the fresh basil and a tangy drizzle of balsamic glaze. I love serving it at gatherings, and it never fails to impress my guests. For an extra zing, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries and avocados
Creamy texture from the mozzarella and avocado that delights the palate
Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a healthy everyday refreshment

The Balance of Flavors

The key to making a perfect Strawberry Avocado Caprese Salad lies in balancing the flavors. Sweet strawberries, creamy avocados, and the savory notes of mozzarella create a remarkable symphony. When selecting strawberries, opt for ripe ones that are brightly colored and slightly fragrant. This will ensure they add just the right amount of sweetness. Pairing these with creamy avocados not only heightens the flavor but also offers a silky texture that complements the freshness of the fruits.

Balsamic glaze is an integral part of this salad, adding a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the avocado and mozzarella. Be mindful of the amount you drizzle—too much can overpower the salad. Start with a smaller quantity and adjust according to your taste preferences. If you want to experiment, consider using flavored vinegars, like raspberry or white balsamic, to add another layer of complexity.

Ingredient Variations

While this recipe is delightful as is, there are plenty of ingredient variations to cater to different tastes. For a slightly nutty flavor, consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch. You could also incorporate other fruits such as peaches or blueberries, which would complement the existing flavors nicely. If you want to introduce a bit of spice, diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a thrilling kick.

For a lighter version of this salad, you can substitute the fresh mozzarella with a lower-fat option. Alternatively, if you're looking for plant-based ingredients, consider using cashew cheese or a vegan mozzarella that melts well. These swaps allow the salad to cater to various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a refreshing Strawberry Avocado Caprese Salad:

Fresh Ingredients

2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 ripe avocados, diced
8 oz fresh mozzarella, ball or sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Strawberry Avocado Caprese Salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the sliced strawberries and diced avocados. Be careful not to mash the avocado.

Add Mozzarella and Basil

Tear the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces and add it to the bowl along with the basil leaves. Toss carefully to maintain the integrity of the ingredients.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss lightly until everything is well coated.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl. Enjoy immediately for the freshest taste!

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance and assemble it just before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try toasting the balsamic glaze over low heat until it thickens slightly. This introduces a rich sweetness that amplifies the salad's overall flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a standalone lunch option, but it can also work beautifully as a side dish at barbecues or picnics. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. To elevate the presentation, try layering the ingredients in a clear glass or jar, allowing the vibrant colors to show through, which adds to the dining experience.

If you’re preparing this salad for a gathering, consider making a larger batch. Simply scale up the ingredients while maintaining the same ratios; this salad can easily accommodate doubling or tripling the recipe. Just ensure you have a large enough bowl to toss everything together without damaging the delicate ingredients.

Storage Tips

Because this salad is best enjoyed fresh, it's advisable to prepare it right before serving. However, if you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Keep in mind that the avocado may start to oxidize and brown after a few hours, so for the best visual appeal, mix in the avocado just before serving.

If you want to prepare components ahead of time, consider slicing the strawberries and storing them separately from the avocado and mozzarella. Storing the avocado with a squeeze of lemon juice can help slow browning. This way, you can enjoy a quick assembly of the salad without having to prep everything from scratch each time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the avocado from browning, but you can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead.

→ What can I substitute for mozzarella?

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using marinated tofu or avocado slices as a replacement for the mozzarella.

→ How can I make this salad more filling?

You can add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this a heartier dish, perfect for a complete meal.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but keep in mind that the salad tastes best fresh due to the avocado.